Brazil survive Japan scare as Martinelli sends them into last 16

Brazil are into the World Cup last 16 after a 2-1 comeback win over Japan, sealed by Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time goal. Japan led at half-time through Kaishu Sano, but Casemiro’s header and Martinelli’s late finish ended their hopes of a first knockout victory at the tournament.

The match turned after Carlo Ancelotti adjusted Brazil at the interval, bringing on Endrick and moving to a 4-2-3-1. Brazil became more direct, delivered more pressure into the area and forced Japan into a second half spent largely defending rather than countering with the fluency they had shown before the break.

Japan’s first-half plan had been disciplined and effective. Takehiro Tomiyasu and Ritsu Doan helped limit Vinícius Júnior on Brazil’s left side, while Sano’s low strike from outside the box gave Hajime Moriyasu’s side a deserved lead. Even in defeat, the performance underlined Japan’s progress, particularly given the report notes injuries to three important creative players.

Brazil advance to face the winner of Côte d’Ivoire against Norway, but the manner of the win leaves familiar questions. Their attacking quality changed the game once momentum shifted, yet the first half exposed concerns around tempo, age profile and midfield control that stronger opponents may punish.